Introduction: Xiphodynia is a rare musculoskeletal disorder characterized by epigastric or anterior chest pain, for which xiphoidectomy is considered as a definitive treatment. This procedure and its complications are not well researched, particularly within Australasian populations. We describe the novel laparoscopic incisional hernia repair from a xiphoidectomy complicated by recurrent epigastric hernias. Case Report: A 49-year-old female presented with chronic epigastric pain post-xiphoidectomy for xiphoidynia. The patient previously underwent open mesh repair for an incisional epigastric hernia, complicated by infection and subsequent removal of the mesh. A vacuum-assisted closure device was then utilized, followed by delayed primary closure. However, she experienced ongoing pain, a recurrent mass, and hypertrophic scarring, confirmed by abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan. Our laparoscopic approach involved a standard supine position with three ports and preperitoneal dissection similar to transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair. The defect was 5 × 8 cm in size. A simple prolene mesh (9 × 12 cm) was secured with AsorbaTack and Glubran 2, followed by peritoneal closure with a 3/0 V-Loc suture. At two months follow-up, the patient had no evidence of recurrent hernia, no ongoing pain, and satisfactory wound healing. Conclusion: Laparoscopic surgical repair using a TAPP approach is a safe alternative to open repair of an incisional recurrent epigastric hernia post-xiphoidectomy.

BACKGROUND Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as an innovative technology in endoscopy training, providing a simulated environment that closely resembles real-life scenarios and offering trainees a valuable platform to acquire and enhance their endoscopic skills. This systematic review will critically evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of VR-based training compared to traditional methods. AIM To evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of VR-based training compared to traditional methods. By examining the current state of the field, this review seeks to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for further research and implementation of VR in endoscopic training. METHODS The study is a systematic review, following the guidelines for reporting systematic reviews set out by the PRISMA statement. A comprehensive search command was designed and implemented and run in September 2023 to identify relevant studies available, from electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The results were systematically reviewed. RESULTS Sixteen articles were included in the final analysis. The total number of participants was 523. Five studies focused on both upper endoscopy and colonoscopy training, two on upper endoscopy training only, eight on colonoscopy training only, and one on sigmoidoscopy training only. Gastrointestinal Mentor virtual endoscopy simulator was commonly used. Fifteen reported positive results, indicating that VR-based training was feasible and acceptable for endoscopy learners. VR technology helped the trainees enhance their skills in manipulating the endoscope, reducing the procedure time or increasing the technical accuracy, in VR scenarios and real patients. Some studies show that the patient discomfort level decreased significantly. However, some studies show there were no significant differences in patient discomfort and pain scores between VR group and other groups. CONCLUSION VR training is effective for endoscopy training. There are several well-designed randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes, proving the potential of this innovative tool. Thus, VR should be more widely adopted in endoscopy training. Furthermore, combining VR training with conventional methods could be a promising approach that should be implemented in training.

Colorectal diseases are increasing due to altered lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. Colonoscopy plays an important role in diagnosis. Advances in colonoscope (ultrathin scope, magnetic scope, capsule) and technological gadgets (Balloon assisted scope, third eye retroscope, NaviAid G-EYE, dye-based chromoendoscopy, virtual chromoendoscopy, narrow band imaging, i-SCAN, etc. ) have made colonoscopy more comfortable and efficient. Now in-vivo microscopy can be performed using confocal laser endomicroscopy, optical coherence tomography, spectroscopy, etc. Besides developments in diagnostic colonoscopy, therapeutic colonoscopy has improved to manage lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding, obstruction, perforations, resection polyps, and early colorectal cancers. The introduction of combined endo-laparoscopic surgery and robotic endoscopic surgery has made these interventions feasible. The role of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and management of colorectal diseases is also increasing day by day. Hence, this article is to review cutting-edge developments in endoscopic principles for the management of colorectal diseases.

The incidence of gastrointestinal malignancies has increased over the past decade at an alarming rate. Colorectal and gastric cancers are the third and fifth most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide but are cited as the second and third leading causes of mortality. Early institution of appropriate therapy from timely diagnosis can optimize patient outcomes. Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools can assist in expeditious diagnosis, treatment planning/response prediction, and post-surgical prognostication. AI can intercept neoplastic lesions in their primordial stages, accurately flag suspicious and/or inconspicuous lesions with greater accuracy on radiologic, histopathological, and/or endoscopic analyses, and eliminate over-dependence on clinicians. AI-based models have shown to be on par, and sometimes even outperformed experienced gastroenterologists and radiologists. Convolutional neural networks (state-of-the-art deep learning models) are powerful computational models, invaluable to the field of precision oncology. These models not only reliably classify images, but also accurately predict response to chemotherapy, tumor recurrence, metastasis, and survival rates post-treatment. In this systematic review, we analyze the available evidence about the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic utility of artificial intelligence in gastrointestinal oncology.

Background: The occurrence of femoral fractures is quite high. The quality of life gets affected to a large extent due to pain and post-operative delirium. Various regional block techniques like Fascia illiaca compartment block, lumbar epidural analgesia, femoral nerve block, etc. have been described for femoral fractures. In this study, we compared the efficacy of post-operative pain relief FICB and Epidural block on quality of recovery (QOR-15) in patients undergoing femoral surgery. Methods: This study included 40 patients wherein 20 patients were given FICB and 20 patients were given Epidural block. The patients were followed up for post-operative pain relief, Quality of Recovery, occurrence of delirium, disability and fraility. Results: Quality of recovery QOR-15 was similar for both the groups preoperatively as well as at 24 hour and 48 hours post-operatively. Additionally, there was no difference in the time taken to administer the block, postoperative VAS score on movement and rest, requirement of additional analgesia and opioid consumption. Moreover, there were no significant differences in WHO disability assessment, modified frailty score, prevalence of delirium, mortality, morbidity and side effects of techniques. However, the total duration of hospital stay (in days) was found to be significantly more in the epidural group as compared with the FICB group (5.75±1.61 vs 4.75±1.16; P=0.38). Conclusion: Ultrasound guided fascia iliaca compartment block is a tangible alternative to epidural block in patients undergoing femoral fracture repair.

The sphere of artificial intelligence (AI) is ever expanding. Applications for clinical practice have been emerging over recent years. Although its uptake has been most prominent in endoscopy, this represents only one aspect of holistic patient care. There are a multitude of other potential avenues in which gastrointestinal care may be involved. We aim to review the role of AI in colorectal cancer as a whole. We performed broad scoping and focused searches of the applications of AI in the field of colorectal cancer. All trials including qualitative research were included from the year 2000 onwards. Studies were grouped into pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative aspects. Pre-operatively, the major use is with endoscopic recognition. Colonoscopy has embraced the use for human derived classifications such as Narrow-band Imaging International Colorectal Endoscopic, Japan Narrow-band Imaging Expert Team, Paris and Kudo. However, novel detection and diagnostic methods have arisen from advances in AI classification. Intra-operatively, adjuncts such as image enhanced identification of structures and assessment of perfusion have led to improvements in clinical outcomes. Post-operatively, monitoring and surveillance have taken strides with potential socioeconomic and environmental savings. The uses of AI within the umbrella of colorectal surgery are multiple. We have identified existing technologies which are already augmenting cancer care. The future applications are exciting and could at least match, if not surpass human standards.

The purpose of the review is to summarize and systematize the literature data on the metabolism, functions of biogenic amines in the brain, as well as their biochemical structure and classification. Biogenic amines play an important role in brain metabolism and its functioning. This is due to the exceptional role of biogenic amines as sources of synthesis of a large number of biologically important compounds, such as neuropeptides and hormones, and their participation in synaptic transmission as neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. Determination of the activity of enzyme systems of their metabolism can serve as an important diagnostic marker of the reaction of the central nervous system to damage in cerebral pathology.

BACKGROUND Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare systemic inflammatory disorder characterized by fever, arthritis, skin rash, and systemic symptoms. The etiology of AOSD is unknown; however, it is thought to be related to immune dysregulation. Although a rare disease, AOSD can significantly impact reproductive health, particularly during pregnancy. This case study assesses the implications of pregnancy in a patient with AOSD, as well as the potential for heredity of the disease. Neonatal hemophagocytic lympho-histiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and life-threatening disorder characterized by hyperinflammation and uncontrolled activation of immune cells, leading to multiple organ dysfunction. This case report aimed to introduce neonatal HLH from a mother with AOSD. CASE SUMMARY This case study presents a 29-year-old female with AOSD who became pregnant and gave birth to a premature infant who was diagnosed with neonatal HLH. AOSD can significantly impact pregnancy and childbirth, as it may become more severe during pregnancy, with an increased risk of fetal loss and preterm birth. The management of AOSD during pregnancy involves the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoids, as well as immunosuppressive agents in severe cases. However, the use of immunosuppressive agents during pregnancy may be associated with potential risks to the fetus. The hereditary implications of AOSD are unclear; however, available evidence suggests that genetic factors may play a role in the disease development. CONCLUSION AOSD can have significant implications for pregnancy and childbirth, including an increased risk of fetal loss and preterm birth. Neonatal HLH, a complication of AOSD in pregnancy, requires prompt diagnosis and management. Women with AOSD who are considering pregnancy should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and develop a management plan that addresses the potential risks to both mother and fetus.